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Mateikaitė-Pipirienė K, Jean D, Paal P, Horakova L, Kriemler S, Rosier AJ, Andjelkovic M, Beidleman BA, Derstine M, Hefti JP, Hillebrandt D, Keyes LE. Menopause and High Altitude: A Scoping Review-UIAA Medical Commission Recommendations. High Alt Med Biol 2024; 25:1-8. [PMID: 37922458 DOI: 10.1089/ham.2023.0039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Mateikaitė-Pipirienė, Kastė, Dominique Jean, Peter Paal, Lenka Horakova, Susi Kriemler, Alison J. Rosier, Marija Andjelkovic, Beth A. Beidleman, Mia Derstine, Jacqueline Pichler Hefti, David Hillebrandt, and Linda E. Keyes for the UIAA MedCom writing group on Women's Health in the Mountains. Menopause and high altitude: A scoping review-UIAA Medical Commission Recommendations. High Alt Med Biol. 25:1-8, 2024. Background: Older people are an important fraction of mountain travelers and climbers, many of them postmenopausal women. The aim of this work was to review health issues that older and postmenopausal women may experience at high altitude, including susceptibility to high-altitude illness. Methods: We performed a scoping review for the UIAA Medical Commission series on Women's Health in the mountains. We searched PubMed and Cochrane libraries and performed an additional manual search. The primary search focused on articles assessing lowland women sojourning at high altitude. Results: We screened 7,165 potential articles. The search revealed three relevant articles, and the manual search another seven articles and one abstract. Seven assessed menopausal low-altitude residents during a high-altitude sojourn or performing hypoxic tests. Four assessed high-altitude residents. We summarize the results of these 11 studies. Conclusions: Data are limited on the effects of high altitude on postmenopausal women. The effects of short-term, high-altitude exposure on menopause symptoms are unknown. Menopause has minimal effect on the physiological responses to hypoxia in physically fit women and does not increase the risk of acute mountain sickness. Postmenopausal women have an increased risk of urinary tract infections, which may be exacerbated during mountain travel. More research is needed on the physiology and performance of older women at high altitude.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kastė Mateikaitė-Pipirienė
- Medical Commission of the International Climbing and Mountaineering Federation (UIAA), Bern, Switzerland
- Diaverum Clinics, Elektrėnai Division, Lithuania
| | - Dominique Jean
- Medical Commission of the International Climbing and Mountaineering Federation (UIAA), Bern, Switzerland
- Paediatrics, Infectious Diseases and Altitude Medicine, Grenoble, France
| | - Peter Paal
- Medical Commission of the International Climbing and Mountaineering Federation (UIAA), Bern, Switzerland
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, St. John of God Hospital, Paracelesus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Lenka Horakova
- Medical Commission of the International Climbing and Mountaineering Federation (UIAA), Bern, Switzerland
- Department of Biomedical Technology, Faculty of Biomedical Engineering, Czech Technical University in Prague, Kladno, Czech Republic
| | - Susi Kriemler
- Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Prevention Institute, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Alison J Rosier
- Medical Commission of the International Climbing and Mountaineering Federation (UIAA), Bern, Switzerland
| | - Marija Andjelkovic
- Medical Commission of the International Climbing and Mountaineering Federation (UIAA), Bern, Switzerland
- Pharmacy, Singidunum University, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Beth A Beidleman
- US Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine, Military Performance Division, Natick MA
| | - Mia Derstine
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Colorado, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | | | - David Hillebrandt
- Medical Commission of the International Climbing and Mountaineering Federation (UIAA), Bern, Switzerland
- General Medical Practitioner, Holsworthy, Devon, United Kingdom
| | - Linda E Keyes
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Colorado, Aurora, Colorado, USA
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Potin M, Carron PN, Genton B. Injuries and medical emergencies among international travellers. J Travel Med 2024; 31:taad088. [PMID: 37405992 DOI: 10.1093/jtm/taad088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2023] [Revised: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tropical infectious diseases and vaccine-preventable emergencies are the mainstay of pre-travel consultations. However, non-communicable diseases, injuries and accidents that occur during travel are not emphasized enough in these settings. METHODS We performed a narrative review based on a literature search of PubMed, Google Scholar, UpToDate, DynaMed and LiSSa and on reference textbooks and medical journals dedicated to travel, emergency and wilderness medicine. Relevant secondary references were extracted. We also aimed to discuss newer or neglected issues, such as medical tourism, Coronavirus Disease 2019, exacerbations of co-morbidities associated with international travel, insurance coverage, health care seeking abroad, medical evacuation or repatriation and tips for different types of travellers' emergency medical kits (personal, group, physician handled). RESULTS All sources reviewed led to the selection of >170 references. Among epidemiological data on morbidity and deaths while abroad, only retrospective data are available. Deaths are estimated to occur in 1 in 100 000 travellers, with 40% caused by trauma and 60% by diseases, and <3% linked to infectious diseases. Trauma and other injuries acquired during travel, such as traffic accidents and drowning, can be reduced by up to 85% with simple preventive recommendations such as avoiding simultaneous alcohol intake. In-flight emergencies occur on 1 in 604 flights on average. Thrombosis risk is two to three times greater for travellers than for non-travellers. Fever during or after travel can occur in 2-4% of travellers, but in up to 25-30% in tertiary centres. Traveller's diarrhoea, although rarely severe, is the most common disease associated with travel. Autochthonous emergencies (acute appendicitis, ectopic pregnancy, dental abscess) can also occur. CONCLUSIONS Pre-travel medicine encounters must include the topic of injuries and medical emergencies, such as the risk-taking behaviours and foster better planning in a comprehensive approach along with vaccines and infectious diseases advices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathieu Potin
- ISTM CTH (Certificate of Travel Health), Chemin des Croix-Rouges 12, Lausanne CH-1007, Switzerland
| | - Pierre-Nicolas Carron
- Emergency Department, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Rue du Bugnon 46, Lausanne CH-1011, Switzerland
| | - Blaise Genton
- Policlinic of Tropical, Travel Medicine and Vaccination, Centre for Primary Care and Public Health, Unisanté, University of Lausanne, Rue du Bugnon 44, Lausanne CH-1011, Switzerland
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Wyler BA, Young HM, Hargarten SW, Cahill JD. Risk of deaths due to injuries in travellers: a systematic review. J Travel Med 2022; 29:6605794. [PMID: 35689484 DOI: 10.1093/jtm/taac074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2022] [Revised: 05/04/2022] [Accepted: 06/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Annual global travel reached an all-time high of 1.4 billion international tourist visits in 2019. It is estimated that injury accounts for close to 25% of deaths in travellers, most of which are theoretically preventable. However, there are limited data available on injury occurrence and outcomes in travellers. Our objective was to better understand the relative risk of dying from injury that arises from the novel environments and behavioural changes associated with foreign travel. METHODS A systematic literature review was conducted (PubMed, Embase and Scopus) according to PRISMA guidelines that included studies published in English since 1990 that reported injury deaths in tourists per 100 000-person years or as a proportion of total tourist deaths in comparison to a non-traveller population. We also included studies that reported data allowing calculation of these rates. Relative rates or proportions of overall injury mortality, mortality due to traffic accidents, drowning and homicide were summarized. RESULTS In total, 1847 articles were identified, 105 underwent full-text review, and 10 articles were suitable for data extraction. There was great variability of relative risk reported, but overall, travellers appear to have a higher risk of injury mortality than domestic populations, with relative rates of injury death ranging from 1.04 to 16.7 and proportionate mortality ratios ranging from 1.43 to 3. CONCLUSIONS Tourists should be aware of the increased risk of dying from road traffic hazards, drowning and homicide while traveling abroad. Specific geographies and activities associated with higher risk should be emphasized. Travel medicine practitioners and organizations that send people abroad should counsel travellers regarding these risks and seek ways to reduce them, including encouraging potential risk-mitigating behaviours. There is a need to improve systems of data collection and reporting on injury deaths in travellers and to study the impact of pre-travel and institutional interventions aimed at reducing this risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin A Wyler
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 1 Gustave L. Levy Pl, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Hannah M Young
- University of Louisville, Owensboro Health Regional Hospital, 1201 Pleasant Valley Road, Owensboro, KY 42301
| | - Stephen W Hargarten
- Medical College of Wisconsin, 8701 Watertown Plank Road, Milwaukee, WI 53226
| | - John D Cahill
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 1 Gustave L. Levy Pl, New York, NY 10029, USA
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Croughs M, Nyakunga GB, Sakita FM, Kilonzo K, Mmbaga BT, Soentjens P. Incidence and predictors of severe altitude illness symptoms in Mt. Kilimanjaro hikers: a prospective cohort study. J Travel Med 2022; 29:6554584. [PMID: 35348739 DOI: 10.1093/jtm/taac044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2022] [Revised: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Each year several Mt. Kilimanjaro hikers die due to altitude illness (AI) although urgent descent is technically easily possible. The objectives of this study were to determine the incidence and predictors of severe altitude illness (SAI) symptoms and of summit success in Mt. Kilimanjaro hikers, and the measures taken when AI symptoms develop. METHODS A prospective observational cohort study in Mt. Kilimanjaro hikers was conducted from December 2019 until March 2020. Participants were asked to complete a questionnaire at the entrance gate and one at the descend gate. A multivariate logistic regression was performed to study the relations between the variables. RESULTS A total of 1237 recreational hikers and 266 porters or guides were included. The incidence of severe symptoms was 8.6% in recreational hikers and 1.5% in porters and guides. One percent (1.1%) of hikers was hospitalized due to SAI. A history of SAI, young age, summit failure and lack of clear advice predicted the development of severe symptoms. Uhuru peak was reached by 87.9% of the hikers. Absence of severe symptoms, acetazolamide prophylaxis, climbing higher in daytime, young age and climbing in more days predicted summit success. The majority climbed further despite the presence of mild or severe symptoms. The only measure taken in case of mild symptoms that was associated with a lower incidence of severe symptoms was not climbing further. CONCLUSION The incidence of SAI symptoms in Mt. Kilimanjaro hikers was observed to be high. However, how hikers reacted during symptoms was not appropriate. Therefore, travel health counsellors should emphasize even more that hikers do not ascend higher until mild symptoms have resolved and that it is vital to descend immediately when severe symptoms develop. In addition, they can be informed on the measures, which improved summit success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mieke Croughs
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Institute of Tropical Medicine (ITM), Antwerp 2000, Belgium
| | - Gissela B Nyakunga
- Department of Internal Medicine, Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre (KCMC), Moshi 3010, Tanzania.,Clinical Trial Unit, Kilimanjaro Clinical Research Institute (KCRI), Moshi 2236, Tanzania.,Faculty of Medicine, Kilimanjaro Christian Medical University College (KCMCUCO), Moshi 2240, Tanzania
| | - Francis M Sakita
- Department of Internal Medicine, Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre (KCMC), Moshi 3010, Tanzania.,Clinical Trial Unit, Kilimanjaro Clinical Research Institute (KCRI), Moshi 2236, Tanzania.,Faculty of Medicine, Kilimanjaro Christian Medical University College (KCMCUCO), Moshi 2240, Tanzania
| | - Kajiru Kilonzo
- Department of Internal Medicine, Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre (KCMC), Moshi 3010, Tanzania.,Clinical Trial Unit, Kilimanjaro Clinical Research Institute (KCRI), Moshi 2236, Tanzania.,Faculty of Medicine, Kilimanjaro Christian Medical University College (KCMCUCO), Moshi 2240, Tanzania
| | - Blandina T Mmbaga
- Department of Internal Medicine, Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre (KCMC), Moshi 3010, Tanzania.,Clinical Trial Unit, Kilimanjaro Clinical Research Institute (KCRI), Moshi 2236, Tanzania.,Faculty of Medicine, Kilimanjaro Christian Medical University College (KCMCUCO), Moshi 2240, Tanzania
| | - Patrick Soentjens
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Institute of Tropical Medicine (ITM), Antwerp 2000, Belgium.,Department of Infectious Diseases, Center for Infectious Diseases, Queen Astrid Military Hospital, Brussels 1120, Belgium
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Patjas A, Kantele A. International travel and travelers' diarrhea - Increased risk of urinary tract infection. Travel Med Infect Dis 2022; 48:102331. [PMID: 35447322 DOI: 10.1016/j.tmaid.2022.102331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2022] [Revised: 04/11/2022] [Accepted: 04/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Urinary tract infections (UTIs) rank among the most common infections encountered in health care, with an annual incidence of 12% for women. Despite the vast numbers of international travels (over 1.5 billion annually), no prospective studies have had primary focus on UTIs during travel. METHODS We recruited in 2008-17 international travelers who all filled out pre- and post-travel questionnaires. Incidence rates of UTI were calculated separately for both sexes. Multivariable analyses were conducted to identify risk factors for UTI during travel. RESULTS In total 15/517 (2,9%) travelers acquired UTI during travel, yielding an annual incidence of 62% for female and 18% for male travelers. Travelers' diarrhea (TD) was identified as a factor predisposing to UTI (OR 9.2, 95% CI 1.5-+∞, p = 0.011); all UTI cases were recorded by travelers with TD. CONCLUSIONS To our knowledge, this is the first prospective study with a primary focus on UTI during travel. Our data reveal that among travelers the incidence of UTI far exceeds that reported for the general population. TD was identified as a major risk factor for the infection. Our results highlight the need for TD prevention as a means of also preventing UTI during travel.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anu Patjas
- Meilahti Infectious Diseases and Vaccine Research Center, MeiVac, Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, P.O. Box 700, FI-00029, HUS, Helsinki, Finland; Human Microbiome Research Unit, University of Helsinki, Finland; Travel Clinic, Aava Medical Center, Annankatu 32, FI-00100, Helsinki, Finland; Center of Excellence in Antimicrobial Resistance Research, University of Helsinki, Finland
| | - Anu Kantele
- Meilahti Infectious Diseases and Vaccine Research Center, MeiVac, Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, P.O. Box 700, FI-00029, HUS, Helsinki, Finland; Human Microbiome Research Unit, University of Helsinki, Finland; Travel Clinic, Aava Medical Center, Annankatu 32, FI-00100, Helsinki, Finland; Center of Excellence in Antimicrobial Resistance Research, University of Helsinki, Finland.
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Small E, Phillips C, Marvel J, Lipman G. Older Age as a Predictive Risk Factor for Acute Mountain Sickness. Am J Med 2022; 135:386-392.e1. [PMID: 34715059 DOI: 10.1016/j.amjmed.2021.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2021] [Accepted: 10/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Older populations are increasing and comprise a substantial portion of high-altitude travelers. Aging physiology may influence susceptibility to acute mountain sickness, though prior research remains inconclusive. The goal of this study was to investigate the relationship between increasing age and acute mountain sickness. METHODS This study was a pooled analysis of 5 prospective randomized controlled trials conducted at White Mountain, California from 2010, 2016-2019 with identical 4-hour rapid ascent from 1242 m to overnight sojourn at 3810 m. Acute mountain sickness was defined by the 2018 Lake Louise Questionnaire criteria. RESULTS There were 491 participants analyzed, 234 (48%) diagnosed with acute mountain sickness and 71 (14%) with moderate acute mountain sickness. Mean age was 37 years (±13). There was no significant correlation between Lake Louise Questionnaire severity and age (r = -0.02; 95% confidence interval [CI], -0.11-0.07, P = .7), 40-year-old dichotomy (t = -0.6; 95% CI, -0.53-0.28, P = .6), or decade of life (P = .4). Logistic regression found no increased odds of acute mountain sickness for increasing age by decade of life (odds ratio [OR] 1.0; 95% CI, 0.97-1.0) or 40-year-old dichotomy (OR 1.4; 95% CI, 0.97-2.1). A history of acute mountain sickness increased odds of acute mountain sickness (OR 3.2; 95% CI, 1.5-7.7). CONCLUSIONS Older age was not associated with incidence nor severity of acute mountain sickness. A history of altitude illness increased odds of acute mountain sickness and should be used for pre-ascent risk stratification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elan Small
- Emergency Medicine Residency, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, Calif.
| | - Caleb Phillips
- Department of Computational Science, University of Colorado, Boulder
| | - James Marvel
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, Calif
| | - Grant Lipman
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, Calif
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7
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Anna G, Crom-Beer Susan D, Sabine H, Thomas H, Alexia A, Christoph H, Sven FJ. Ready-To-Go Questionnaire - Development and validation of a novel medical pre-travel risk stratification tool. Travel Med Infect Dis 2022; 47:102304. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tmaid.2022.102304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2021] [Revised: 02/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/03/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Costello VH, Tribble D, Eickhoff C, Tilley DH, Utz G, Telu K, Ganesan A, Fraser J, Lalani T. Travel-Related Risk Behaviors and Antibiotic Use Among Older Travelers. Open Forum Infect Dis 2021; 8:ofab395. [PMID: 34430673 PMCID: PMC8378587 DOI: 10.1093/ofid/ofab395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 07/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Antibiotic stewardship in the pretravel care of older adults is important to effectively treat infections while minimizing harm from side effects and unnecessary antibiotic use. The objective of this study was to compare the characteristics, risk behaviors, infectious diseases, and antibiotic use between older (≥60 years) and younger (18-59 years) travelers. Methods TravMil is a prospective, observational cohort of United States (US) Department of Defense beneficiaries traveling outside the continental US for ≤6.5 months. For this analysis, we included adults enrolled pretravel between January 2010 and August 2018 and excluded active duty personnel on deployment. Pre and post-travel surveys captured trip characteristics, exposures, illnesses, and antibiotic use. Results A total of 1742 travelers were analyzed: 747 (42.9%) were aged ≥60 years and 995 (57.1%) were aged 18-59 years. Older travelers were less likely to engage in high-risk dietary behaviors and experience travelers' diarrhea than younger travelers (18.2% vs 22.9%; P < .05). Influenza-like illness (12.5%) and febrile illness (3.4%) occurred less frequently in the older cohort. Antibiotic use for self-treatment was common in both age groups (25.7% vs 26.7%) and often inappropriate, for example, for treatment of occasional loose stool or mild travelers' diarrhea (67.0% [67/100] in older adults vs 57.6% [83/144] in younger adults; P < .05), and influenza-like illness (63.4% [64/101] vs 58.6% [68/116], respectively; P < .05). Conclusions Older travelers were less likely to engage in high-risk behaviors and experience travelers' diarrhea, and both age groups experienced mild, self-limited infections. Inappropriate use of antibiotics was common, suggesting that antimicrobial stewardship should be emphasized at pretravel counseling with international travelers.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - David Tribble
- Infectious Disease Clinical Research Program, Department of Preventive Medicine and Biostatistics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | | | | | - Gregory Utz
- Infectious Disease Clinical Research Program, Department of Preventive Medicine and Biostatistics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland, USA.,Naval Medical Center San Diego, San Diego, California, USA.,Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Inc, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Kalyani Telu
- Infectious Disease Clinical Research Program, Department of Preventive Medicine and Biostatistics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland, USA.,Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Inc, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Anuradha Ganesan
- Infectious Disease Clinical Research Program, Department of Preventive Medicine and Biostatistics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland, USA.,Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Inc, Bethesda, Maryland, USA.,Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Jamie Fraser
- Infectious Disease Clinical Research Program, Department of Preventive Medicine and Biostatistics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland, USA.,Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Inc, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Tahaniyat Lalani
- Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, Portsmouth, Virginia, USA.,Infectious Disease Clinical Research Program, Department of Preventive Medicine and Biostatistics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland, USA.,Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Inc, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
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Huits R, Schwartz E. Fatal outcomes of imported dengue fever in adult travelers from non-endemic areas are associated with primary infections. J Travel Med 2021; 28:6137752. [PMID: 33590860 DOI: 10.1093/jtm/taab020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2020] [Revised: 01/28/2021] [Accepted: 02/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The case-fatality rate of dengue in travelers is low. Secondary dengue virus (DENV) infections are considered a risk factor for fatal outcome in endemic populations; however, the impact of secondary infections on mortality in travelers has not been studied systematically. We performed a descriptive analysis of case reports of dengue fatalities in travelers. METHODS We searched Medline for clinical case reports, using the free terms and MeSH headings: 'Dengue' OR 'Severe Dengue' AND 'Travel-Related Illness' OR 'travel' AND 'Mortality' OR 'Fatal Outcome'. We analyzed case reports of fatal dengue in returning travelers published from 1995 to 2020, with the objective to detail risk factors for dengue mortality in this population. We verified the authors' classifications of primary or secondary dengue infections; infections were considered as primary by absence of anti-DENV immunoglobulin (Ig)G or by IgM-to-IgG ratios greater than or equal to 1.8 in the first 7 days post symptom onset. RESULTS We identified nine detailed reports of dengue with fatal outcome among travelers from non-endemic countries. Eight fatalities were female. The median age was 32 years (range 21-63). Out of nine fatal cases, seven travelers had a primary DENV infection, one had a secondary infection and, in one, these data were not reported. The infecting DENV serotypes were DENV-1 (n = 2), DENV-2 (n = 2) and DENV-3 (n = 3); DENV-1 or 2 (n = 1) and in one case, the serotype could not be determined. CONCLUSIONS Dengue-related deaths in travelers are rare. Most dengue cases in travelers are primary infections. Contrary to prevailing conceptions, we found that fatal outcomes of dengue in travelers from non-endemic countries were reported mainly with primary DENV infections. We alert health care providers that primary DENV infections are not always harmless and that in adult travelers from non-endemic countries, primary infections may contribute more to dengue-related mortality than secondary infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ralph Huits
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Nationalestraat 155, B-20000 Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Eli Schwartz
- The Center for Travel and Tropical Medicine, Sheba Medical Center, Ramat Gan, 52621, Israel.,Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, 69978, Israel
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Nishio R, Ogita M, Wada H, Nozaki Y, Takahashi D, Yasuda K, Takeuchi M, Takahashi N, Sonoda T, Yatsu S, Shitara J, Tsuboi S, Dohi T, Suwa S, Miyauchi K, Daida H. Clinical Characteristics and Long-Term Outcomes of Patients with Acute Coronary Syndrome During Travel. Int Heart J 2021; 62:487-492. [PMID: 33994497 DOI: 10.1536/ihj.20-385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Cardiovascular disease is a major cause of death among travelers, but the clinical characteristics and clinical outcomes of patients who develop acute coronary syndrome (ACS) while traveling have not been assessed. We evaluated 2548 patients with ACS who underwent primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) between 1999 and 2015 and compared the incidences of all-cause and cardiac death during follow-up between travelers and locals. We assessed 192 (7.5%) patients who developed ACS while traveling. These patients were younger and had a higher prevalence of ST-elevation myocardial infarction than local patients. During a median follow-up period of 5.3 years, 632 (24.8%) all-cause deaths were identified, including 310 cardiac deaths (12.2%). Kaplan-Meier analysis revealed that the cumulative incidence of all-cause death was significantly lower among the travelers than locals (P = 0.001, log-rank test). Multivariate Cox hazard analysis revealed that travel was significantly associated with a lower rate of all cause death (hazard ratio, 0.53; 95% confidence interval, 0.33-0.80; P = 0.002). Cardiac mortality did not significantly differ between travelers and locals (P = 0.29). Patients with ACS treated with primary PCI while traveling had more favorable long-term clinical outcomes than local patients. Appropriate initial treatments and secondary preventions might improve the prognosis of travelers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryota Nishio
- Department of Cardiology, Juntendo University Shizuoka Hospital
| | - Manabu Ogita
- Department of Cardiology, Juntendo University Shizuoka Hospital
| | - Hideki Wada
- Department of Cardiology, Juntendo University Shizuoka Hospital
| | - Yui Nozaki
- Department of Cardiology, Juntendo University Shizuoka Hospital
| | - Daigo Takahashi
- Department of Cardiology, Juntendo University Shizuoka Hospital
| | - Kentaro Yasuda
- Department of Cardiology, Juntendo University Shizuoka Hospital
| | | | - Norihito Takahashi
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine
| | - Taketo Sonoda
- Department of Cardiology, Juntendo University Shizuoka Hospital
| | - Shoichiro Yatsu
- Department of Cardiology, Juntendo University Shizuoka Hospital
| | - Jun Shitara
- Department of Cardiology, Juntendo University Shizuoka Hospital
| | - Shuta Tsuboi
- Department of Cardiology, Juntendo University Shizuoka Hospital
| | - Tomotaka Dohi
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine
| | - Satoru Suwa
- Department of Cardiology, Juntendo University Shizuoka Hospital
| | - Katsumi Miyauchi
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine
| | - Hiroyuki Daida
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine
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11
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Validation of shock index for predicting mortality in older patients with dengue fever. Aging Clin Exp Res 2021; 33:635-640. [PMID: 32399869 DOI: 10.1007/s40520-020-01563-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2020] [Accepted: 04/11/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Older adults have a higher mortality for dengue fever (DF). However, the best method for predicting mortality is still unclear. AIMS We conducted this study to evaluate the shock index (SI) for this issue. METHODS A retrospective case-control study was conducted by recruiting older patients (≥ 65 years old) with DF who visited the study hospital in southern Taiwan during the 2015 DF outbreak. Demographic data, vital signs, past histories, decision groups, complications, and mortality were included in the analyses. We evaluated the accuracy of SI ≥ 1 for predicting 30-day mortality in this population. RESULTS A total of 626 patients with a mean age of 74.1 years and nearly equal sex distribution were recruited. The mean of SI (± standard deviation [SD]) was 0.6 (± 0.2) and patients with a SI ≥ 1 accounted for 3.5% of the total patients. Logistic regression showed that patients with SI ≥ 1 had a higher mortality than those with SI < 1 (odds ratio: 8.49; 95% confidence interval: 1.76-17.92). The area under the receiver-operating characteristic was 0.76, and the Hosmer-Lemeshow goodness of fit test was 0.48. The SI ≥ 1 had a sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value of 14.8%, 97.0%, 18.2%, and 96.2% for predicting mortality. CONCLUSIONS The SI ≥ 1 is an easy tool that can be potentially used to predict 30-day mortality in older DF patients, especially in DF outbreak. It has a high specificity and negative predictive value for excluding patients with high-risk mortality.
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Sadlon A, Ensslin A, Freystätter G, Gagesch M, Bischoff-Ferrari HA. Are patients with cognitive impairment fit to fly? Current evidence and practical recommendations. J Travel Med 2021; 28:5876266. [PMID: 32710619 DOI: 10.1093/jtm/taaa123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2020] [Revised: 07/05/2020] [Accepted: 07/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The worldwide prevalence of dementia is increasing and represents a major public health concern. In the last decades, air travel services have undergone an impressive expansion and one of ten passengers is aged 65 years and older. While air travel can be stressful at all ages and health conditions, older individuals with cognitive impairment carry a greater risk for air-travel-related complications. Consequently, demands to general practitioners for assessing their older patient's fitness to fly are increasing. METHODS We conducted a search of the literature in PubMed on the impact of in-flight environmental changes on passengers with cognitive impairment and possible resulting complications. This set the base for a discussion on pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions aimed at preventing in-flight complications in this vulnerable population. RESULTS While our research strategy identified a total of 11 articles related to older age and air travel, only three focused on passengers with cognitive impairment. Our literature review showed that the airplane environment may lead to a large spectrum of symptoms in passengers of all age groups. However, passengers with cognitive impairment due to neurodegenerative diseases are at increased risk for experiencing the most extreme symptoms such as acute confusional state. Non-pharmacological and pharmacological interventions at different stages of the travel process (before, during and after) can help prevent complications in this vulnerable population. CONCLUSION The decision to let a patient with cognitive impairment fly requires a solid understanding of the in-flight environmental changes and their impact on older patients with cognitive impairment. Moreover, a sound weighing of the risks and benefits while considering different aspects of the patient's history is demanded. In this regard, the role of the treating physicians and caregivers is essential along with the support of the medical department of the airline.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angélique Sadlon
- Department of Geriatrics, University Hospital Zürich, Switzerland.,Centre on Aging and Mobility, University of Zürich, Switzerland.,Ageing Epidemiology Research Unit, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, UK
| | - Angela Ensslin
- Medical Services, Swiss International Air Lines Ltd., Zürich Airport, Kloten, Switzerland
| | - Gregor Freystätter
- Department of Geriatrics, University Hospital Zürich, Switzerland.,Centre on Aging and Mobility, University of Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Michael Gagesch
- Department of Geriatrics, University Hospital Zürich, Switzerland.,Centre on Aging and Mobility, University of Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Heike A Bischoff-Ferrari
- Department of Geriatrics, University Hospital Zürich, Switzerland.,Centre on Aging and Mobility, University of Zürich, Switzerland
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13
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Vlot JA, Vive MGD, Brockhoff HJ, van Genderen PJJ, Trompenaars MCE, van Steenbergen JE, Visser LG. Predicting morbidity in older travellers during a short-term stay in the tropics: the ELDEST study. J Travel Med 2021; 28:taaa216. [PMID: 33225347 PMCID: PMC7788562 DOI: 10.1093/jtm/taaa216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2020] [Revised: 10/19/2020] [Accepted: 11/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Older persons may suffer more from travel-related health problems because of ageing and underlying chronic disorders. Knowledge on who is more likely to have these health problems helps to tailor travel health advice more specifically. This study aimed to determine predictors of travel-related morbidity in older travellers by assessing their pre-travel characteristics and performance using physical and cognitive functioning tests. METHODS Multicentre prospective cohort study among older travellers (≥60 years) who consulted one of the participating Dutch travel clinics. Handgrip strength and cognitive performance were measured pre-travel. Participants completed questionnaires before departure and 1 and 4 weeks after return. A diary recorded health complaints during travel until 2-week post-travel. RESULTS In total, 477 travellers completed the study (follow-up rate of 97%). Participants' median age was 66 years. The most visited regions were South-East Asia (34%) and South Asia (14%). Median travel duration was 19 days. Polypharmacy (≥5 medications per day) was not uncommon (16%). The median Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) score was 0. Self-reported travel-related infectious diseases concerned primarily respiratory tract infections (21%) and gastroenteritis (10%) whereas non-infectious complaints were injuries (13%), peripheral edema (12%) and dehydration (3%). Medical assistance was sought by 18%, mostly post-travel from their general practitioner (87%). Self-reported physical and mental health-related quality of life significantly improved during and after travel. Predictors for an increased risk of travel-related morbidity were higher CCI score, more travel experience, longer travel duration, higher number of daily medications, visiting northern Africa or South-East and East Asia, and phone and social media use. CONCLUSION Older Dutch travellers are generally fit, well-prepared and suffer not only from common infectious health problems, but also from injuries. Travel improved their self-perceived health. The predictors could be used to identify the more at-risk older traveller and to decrease travel-related morbidity by optimizing pre-travel advice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica A Vlot
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Marissa G D Vive
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Henricus J Brockhoff
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Municipal Health Service, Westeinde 128, 2512 HE The Hague, The Netherlands
| | - Pieter J J van Genderen
- Harbour Hospital and Institute for Tropical Diseases, currently working on Department of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Erasmus Medical Center, Doctor Molewaterplein 40, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - James E van Steenbergen
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands
- Centre for Infectious Disease Control, Netherlands Institute for Public Health and Environment, Antonie van Leeuwenhoeklaan 9, 3721 MA Bilthoven, The Netherlands
| | - Leonardus G Visser
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands
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14
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Hatz C, Bühler S, Farnham A. The COVID-19 pandemic offers a key moment to reflect on travel medicine practice. J Travel Med 2020; 27:5900571. [PMID: 32877520 PMCID: PMC7499751 DOI: 10.1093/jtm/taaa149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2020] [Revised: 07/06/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
COVID-19 provides an opportunity to review travel health advice priorities. Infectious and non-infectious diseases are key for travel medicine, Research is warranted to stimulate an evidence-based balance in what travel medicine experts communicate to their clients
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Affiliation(s)
- Christoph Hatz
- Infectious Diseases and Hospital Hygiene, Cantonal Hospital, St. Gallen, Switzerland.,Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland.,University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.,Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Prevention Institute, University of Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Silja Bühler
- Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Prevention Institute, University of Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland.,Bernhard Nocht Institute, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Andrea Farnham
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland.,University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.,Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Prevention Institute, University of Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
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15
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Osman S, Preet R. Dengue, chikungunya and Zika in GeoSentinel surveillance of international travellers: a literature review from 1995 to 2020. J Travel Med 2020; 27:6007546. [PMID: 33258476 DOI: 10.1093/jtm/taaa222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2020] [Revised: 11/18/2020] [Accepted: 11/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION GeoSentinel is a global surveillance network of travel medicine providers seeing ill-returned travellers. Much of our knowledge on health problems and infectious encountered by international travellers has evolved as a result of GeoSentinel surveillance, providing geographic and temporal trends in morbidity among travellers while contributing to improved pre-travel advice. We set out to synthesize epidemiological information, clinical manifestations and time trends for dengue, chikungunya and Zika in travellers as captured by GeoSentinel. METHODS We conducted a systematic literature search in PubMed on international travellers who presented with dengue, chikungunya or Zika virus infections to GeoSentinel sites around the world from 1995 until 2020. RESULTS Of 107 GeoSentinel publications, 42 articles were related to dengue, chikungunya and/or Zika. The final analyses and synthesis of and results presented here are based on the findings from 27 original articles covering the three arboviral diseases. CONCLUSIONS Dengue is the most frequent arboviral disease encountered in travellers presenting to GeoSentinel sites, with increasing trends over the past two decades. In Southeast Asia, annual proportionate morbidity increased from 50 dengue cases per 1000 ill returned travellers in non-epidemic years to an average of 159 cases per 1000 travellers during epidemic years. The highest number of travellers with chikungunya virus infections was reported during the chikungunya outbreak in the Americas and the Caribbean in the years 2013-16. Zika was first reported by GeoSentinel already in 2012, but notifications peaked in the years 2016-17 reflecting the public health emergency in the Americas at the time.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Osman
- Department of Epidemiology and Global Health, Faculty of Medicine, Umeå University, Umeå, 90185, Sweden
| | - R Preet
- Department of Epidemiology and Global Health, Faculty of Medicine, Umeå University, Umeå, 90185, Sweden
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16
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Gianfredi V, Albano L, Basnyat B, Ferrara P. Does age have an impact on acute mountain sickness? A systematic review. J Travel Med 2020; 27:5693886. [PMID: 31897482 DOI: 10.1093/jtm/taz104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2019] [Revised: 12/10/2019] [Accepted: 12/17/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Acute mountain sickness (AMS) is the most common form of illness at high altitude; however, it is still unclear whether age is a protective factor or a risk factor for the development of AMS in travellers. In recent decades, the number of travellers aged 60 years or older is increasing. Thus, the care of older travellers is a long-standing issue in travel medicine. This study aims to systematically review the current state of knowledge related to the effect of old age on the risk of AMS. Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were used, and the following databases were consulted: PubMed/Medline, Embase, Europe PubMed Central (EuropePMC), World Health Organization Library Database (WHOLIS) and Literatura Latino-Americana e do Caribe em Ciências da Saúde (LILACS). The search yielded a total of 532 articles, of which 25 met the inclusion criteria, corresponding to 26 reports. Although the approaches, methods and quality were heterogeneous among the included studies, 12 reported a negative correlation between AMS prevalence and age, 11 detected no relationship and three papers indicated that the age of AMS subjects was significantly higher than controls. Despite these differences, old age does not seem to be a contraindication for travelling at high altitude. Thus, the presented synthesis will be useful for health professionals in travel medicine to better tailor their appropriate care for older adults who travel to destinations at high altitude.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincenza Gianfredi
- Post-graduate School of Hygiene and Preventive Medicine, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Luciana Albano
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Buddha Basnyat
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Patan Academy of Health Sciences, Kathmandu, Nepal
| | - Pietro Ferrara
- Research Center on Public Health, University of Milan - Bicocca, Monza, Italy
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17
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Wiemer D, Schwarz NG, Burchard GD, Frickmann H, Loderstaedt U, Hagen RM. Surveillance of enteropathogenic bacteria, protozoa and helminths in travellers returning from the tropics. Eur J Microbiol Immunol (Bp) 2020; 10:147-155. [PMID: 32910786 PMCID: PMC7592519 DOI: 10.1556/1886.2020.00015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2020] [Accepted: 07/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Diarrhoea is a frequent symptom associated with travelling to tropical regions, but the cause is often not found. Epidemiology was assessed including up-to-date real-time PCR approaches.We analysed datasets of 528 patients who presented at the Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine in Hamburg, Germany, between 2006 and 2010 for screening purposes or because of diarrhoea. Stool samples were obtained and investigated by microscopy, bacterial culture, two PCR assays targeting Entamoeba histolytica, Entamoeba dispar, Giardia duodenalis, and Cryptosporidium parvum, or Salmonella spp., Shigella/EIEC spp., Campylobacter jejuni, and Yersinia spp.Among patients with gastrointestinal symptoms, 51% tested positive for bacteria or parasites, of which 66% had a known enteropathogenic potential. In patients without diarrhoea, 53% (n = 80) were positive, and 33% of these cases harboured agents of pathogenic potential. Association with clinical symptoms was primarily found for bacterial infections. Blastocystis hominis, however, was more frequent in asymptomatic than in symptomatic travellers.In conclusion, the study stresses the etiological relevance of bacterial gastroenteritis in travellers returning from the tropics, the need for molecular approaches to increase diagnostic sensitivity and demonstrates that asymptomatic carriage of enteropathogens after prolonged stays in the tropics is similarly frequent compared with symptomatic infections in travellers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dorothea Wiemer
- 1Department of Tropical Medicine at the Bernhard Nocht Institute, Bundeswehr Hospital Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | | | | | - Hagen Frickmann
- 1Department of Tropical Medicine at the Bernhard Nocht Institute, Bundeswehr Hospital Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany.,3Institute for Microbiology, Virology and Hygiene, University Medicine Rostock, Rostock, Germany
| | | | - Ralf-Matthias Hagen
- 4Department for Microbiology and Hospital Hygiene, Bundeswehr Central Hospital Koblenz, Koblenz, Germany
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18
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Lewis J, Gregorian T, Portillo I, Goad J. Drug interactions with antimalarial medications in older travelers: a clinical guide. J Travel Med 2020; 27:5644627. [PMID: 31776555 DOI: 10.1093/jtm/taz089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2019] [Revised: 10/27/2019] [Accepted: 11/04/2019] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Increasingly older adults are traveling to international destinations with malaria as a present risk. Surveillance systems indicate that older adults are more likely to suffer severe complications from malaria. The role of health care providers in selecting an appropriate medication for chemoprophylaxis or treatment of malaria in adults becomes more difficult as older adults undergo physiologic changes that alter the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic nature of medications potentially causing increased drug interactions, adverse events and altered drug action. A comprehensive literature search from 1970 to present, with a focus on the past 10 years, was conducted on drug interactions, pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic effects on antimalarials in adults. It was determined that due to pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic changes in older adults, especially renal and cardiovascular, special attention should be given to this population of travelers in order to minimize the likelihood of adverse events or altered drug efficacy. Antimalarial drug-disease interactions in older adults can occur more often due to QT prolongation, exacerbation of hypoglycemia, decreased renal elimination and decreased hepatic metabolism. Older antimalarials have well-documented drug-drug interactions. Tafenoquine, a new antimalarial, requires glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase screening like primaquine and monitoring of new potential drug interaction with MATE1 and OCT2 substrates. While drug-drug interactions in older travelers may occur more often as a result of polypharmacy, data did not indicate adverse reactions or decreased drug efficacy is greater compared with younger adults. Overall, with the exception of recently approved tafenoquine, much is known about antimalarial drug and disease interactions, but new drugs are always being approved, requiring travel health providers to understand the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of antimalarial drugs to predict the impact on safety and efficacy in travelers. This guide provides travel health providers with valuable insights on potential outcomes associated with drug interactions in adults and recommended monitoring or drug regimen modification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jelena Lewis
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Chapman University School of Pharmacy, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Tania Gregorian
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Chapman University School of Pharmacy, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Ivan Portillo
- Leatherby Libraries, Chapman University, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Jeff Goad
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Chapman University School of Pharmacy, Irvine, CA, USA
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19
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Del Prete V, Mateo-Urdiales A, Bueno-Cavanillas A, Ferrara P. Malaria prevention in the older traveller: a systematic review. J Travel Med 2019; 26:5562848. [PMID: 31509199 DOI: 10.1093/jtm/taz067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2019] [Revised: 08/14/2019] [Accepted: 08/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Older travellers are at higher risk of malaria-related morbidity and mortality compared with younger people. Yet, prevention of malaria in this specific group of travellers is a long-standing issue in travel medicine. The aim of this research was to synthetize the existing evidence about this important topic, highlighting older travellers' attitudes and practises toward malaria prevention. Searches were performed on PubMed, Embase, EuropePMC, Web of Science, WHOLIS and LILACS databases for relevant studies reporting malaria prevention measures in older travellers. To measure malaria prevention in the older traveller population, the main information outcomes were obtained from the ABCD framework that included travellers' 'Awareness' towards pre-travel health advice, their utilisation of 'Bite-prevention measures' and adherence to 'Chemoprophylaxis'. Data on 'Diagnosis'-related outcomes were excluded for not being measures of malaria prevention. Three evaluators independently selected studies, extracted data and assessed the quality of the included articles. The research protocol was registered with PROSPERO (protocol number CRD42019124202). Out of the 899 titles and abstracts screened, 13 articles were included in this review synthesis. These studies included a wide range of interventions for malaria prevention: no relevant differences in pre-travel healthcare attendance were found depending on age; older travellers were found to be less likely to comply with bite-prevention measures; three high-quality studies reported that adherence to chemoprophylaxis significantly increased with age, while three studies did not find age-related differences in travellers' adherence. Overall, prevention of malaria in the older traveller has received limited attention from the scientific community. Older travellers seem to be less likely to comply with bite-prevention measures, but there was high heterogeneity across the reports. This population group demands particular attention and tailored health advice before travelling to malaria endemic areas. More research is required on how to improve malaria prevention in the older traveller.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viola Del Prete
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Alberto Mateo-Urdiales
- Department of Public Health and Policy, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
- School of Public Health, Health Education North West, Manchester, UK
| | | | - Pietro Ferrara
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
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20
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Darrat M, Flaherty GT. Retrospective analysis of older travellers attending a specialist travel health clinic. TROPICAL DISEASES TRAVEL MEDICINE AND VACCINES 2019; 5:17. [PMID: 31548898 PMCID: PMC6751636 DOI: 10.1186/s40794-019-0094-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2019] [Accepted: 09/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Background Older people represent a significant proportion of overseas travellers. The epidemiology of older international travellers is not well described in the literature. This study aims to identify demographics, travel characteristics and the medical profile of older travellers seeking pre-travel health advice in a specialist travel medicine clinic. Methods Records of travellers aged 60 years and older attending the Tropical Medical Bureau clinic in Galway, Ireland between 2014 and 2018 were examined. Descriptive and inferential.analysis of data was performed. Results A total of 337 older travellers sought pre-travel health advice during the study period. The mean age of the cohort was 65.42 (±10) years. Most of the travellers (n = 267, 80%) had at least one travelling companion. Nearly half of older travellers (n = 155, 46.8%) were travelling with a single companion. Tourism was the main reason for travel for the majority (n = 260, 77.6%), followed by visiting friends and relatives (VFR) (n = 23, 6.9%) travellers. The mean interval remaining before the planned trip was 4.36 (±2) weeks, and the mean duration of travel was 3.16 (±1) weeks. The most popular single country of destination was India with 33 (9.8%) visitors, and South East Asia was the most popular region with 132 (39.2%) older travellers. The majority of travellers (n = 267, 79.2%) had a documented pre-existing medical condition. The most commonly reported medical conditions were hypertension (n = 26, 7.7%), dyslipidaemia (n = 18, 5.3%), diabetes mellitus (n = 12, 3.5%), insect bite sensitivity (n = 11, 3.3%), and hypothyroidism (n = 9, 2.6%). Antihypertensive agents (n = 32, 9.4%) and statins (n = 24, 7.1%) were the most frequently used medications. Typhoid (n = 112, 33.2%) and hepatitis A (n = 84, 24.9%) were the most common vaccinations administered to older travellers at the clinic. Conclusions This study provides an insight into the demographics, travel characteristics, and medical profile of elderly travellers seeking advice at a large travel clinic in Ireland. A wide range of travel destinations, diseases and medication use was reported among this group of travellers, which may enable travel medicine physicians to provide more tailored advice and to more appropriately counsel older travellers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milad Darrat
- 1School of Medicine, National University of Ireland Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - Gerard T Flaherty
- 1School of Medicine, National University of Ireland Galway, Galway, Ireland.,2School of Medicine, International Medical University, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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21
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Kuenzli E, Jaeger VK, DeCrom S, Sydow V, Muigg V, Frei R, Egli A, Fehr J, Hatz C. Impact of alcohol-based hand-gel sanitizer and hand hygiene advice on travellers' diarrhoea and colonization with extended-spectrum beta-lactamase-producing Enterobacteriaceae: A randomised, controlled trial. Travel Med Infect Dis 2019; 32:101475. [PMID: 31499238 DOI: 10.1016/j.tmaid.2019.101475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2019] [Revised: 09/04/2019] [Accepted: 09/05/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Travellers' diarrhoea (TD) is the most common health problem in international travellers. Besides being bothersome for the individual and a considerable economic burden for the public, TD is also known to be associated with becoming colonized with extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL)-producing Enterobacteriacea. Despite the high frequency of TD cases, easy and effective preventive measures are lacking. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of using hand gel sanitizer on the incidence of TD and colonization with ESBL-producing Enterobacteriaceae. METHOD A multicentre randomized intervention trial studying the effect of hand gel sanitizer on the incidence of TD and colonization with ESBL-producing Enterobacteriaceae in travellers to Southeast Asia was performed. RESULTS The intention to treat analysis showed a reduction in the incidence of WHO TD in the intervention group (OR 0.54 (95% CI 0.30-0.97), p = 0.04). No effect was seen or the incidence of becoming colonized with ESBL-producing Enterobacteriaceae. CONCLUSION Using hand gel sanitizer might have a protective effect on the occurrence of TD. Based on the current data, education on the proper use appears to play a key role for its effectiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esther Kuenzli
- Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Prevention Institute, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland; Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland; University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Veronika K Jaeger
- Department of Rheumatology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland; Institute for Epidemiology and Social Medicine, University of Münster, Germany
| | - Susan DeCrom
- Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Prevention Institute, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Véronique Sydow
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland; University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Veronika Muigg
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland; University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Reno Frei
- Infectious Diseases & Hospital Epidemiology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Adrian Egli
- Clinical Bacteriology and Mycology, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland; Applied Microbiology Research, Department of Biomedicine, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Jan Fehr
- Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Prevention Institute, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland; Division of Infectious Diseases and Hospital Epidemiology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Christoph Hatz
- Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Prevention Institute, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland; Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland; University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland; Infectious Diseases and Hospital Hygiene, Cantonal Hospital, St. Gallen, Switzerland
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22
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Doherty TM, Del Giudice G, Maggi S. Adult vaccination as part of a healthy lifestyle: moving from medical intervention to health promotion. Ann Med 2019; 51:128-140. [PMID: 31025882 PMCID: PMC7857442 DOI: 10.1080/07853890.2019.1588470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
As the global population ages, there is concern about the effect of an increased proportion of older individuals on the economic sustainability of healthcare systems and the social effects of an older society. Health authorities and advocacy groups in countries at the forefront of this trend are now developing strategies to ameliorate the social and financial effects of an ageing population. There is broad agreement that for both society and for the individuals, it is important to ensure that increasing lifespans are matched with increased "healthspans" - the number of years spent in good health. There is also growing consensus that vaccination is one of the tools that can play an important role in improving adult health - though currently vaccination coverage is often poor. This review focuses on two issues that consistently appear to be associated with under-vaccination: the low awareness of risk (and potential consequences) for vaccine-preventable diseases and a poor understanding of the value of improved vaccination coverage for adults. We suggest that understanding of vaccination as a health-promoting activity, rather than a medical intervention designed to prevent the spread of a specific pathogen - is a crucial step to improve vaccination uptake among adults (see Supplementary video abstract ). Key messages As populations age globally, we are seeing an increasing burden of vaccine-preventable disease in adults. Adult vaccination against some common diseases has been shown to dramatically improve health and quality of life for older people. Despite the attested benefits, vaccination coverage is almost always poor in adults, even in countries where access is free at point of care. In this article, we discuss what appears to a neglected issue in adult vaccination, that of personal autonomy. We argue that adult vaccination will only be successful if it respects individual autonomy and that this requires treating the choice to vaccinate as a public health issue akin to smoking cessation, exercise and healthy diet.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Stefania Maggi
- c CNR, Institute of Neuroscience - Aging Branch , Padua , Italy
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Abstract
Respiratory tract infections (RTIs) are a common health problem of international travelers. Travelers may be at increased risk of RTIs due to travel itself (mingling and close quarters in airports, airplanes, cruise ships, and hotels), and due to unique exposure at travel destinations. The clinical spectrum of RTIs in travelers is broad and includes upper RTIs, pharyngitis, otitis, laryngitis, bronchitis, and pneumonia. Most travelers who acquire an RTI only develop mild disease, and only a minority seek medical attention. All travelers should be up to date on any indicated vaccines based on age and medical condition that prevent RTIs, including influenza, measles, pneumococcal diseases, Haemophilus influenzae b, Neisseria meningitidis, diphtheria, and pertussis. Respiratory tract infections (RTIs) are among the most common illnesses reported by travelers. Most RTIs are viral, involve the upper respiratory tract, and do not require specific diagnosis or treatment. Influenza is often considered the most important travel-related infection. Travelers play an integral role in the yearly and global spread of influenza. Lower RTIs, including pneumonia, often require antimicrobial therapy. High-risk groups such as infants, small children, the elderly, and subjects with chronic tracheobronchial or pulmonary disease are at increased risk of developing severe clinical consequences should infection occur. All international travelers should be immunized for seasonal influenza unless otherwise contraindicated, and travelers should be instructed in hand hygiene and sneeze and cough hygiene. All travelers should be up to date on any indicated vaccines that prevent RTIs, including measles, pneumococcal diseases, Haemophilus influenzae b (Hib), meningococcal disease, diphtheria, and pertussis. Travelers may be at increased risk of geographically restricted RTIs, and clinicians should be familiar with the major manifestations of these illnesses.
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Wilder-Smith A. Risk of Dengue in Travelers: Implications for Dengue Vaccination. Curr Infect Dis Rep 2018; 20:50. [DOI: 10.1007/s11908-018-0656-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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Leischker AH, Heppner HJ. [Fit for travel in older adults]. MMW Fortschr Med 2018; 160:38-42. [PMID: 29754342 DOI: 10.1007/s15006-018-0531-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Andreas H Leischker
- Lehrbeauftragter für das Fach "Geriatrie" an der Heinrich-Heine-Universität Düsseldorf, Klinik für Geriatrie und Gelbfieberimpfstelle, Alexianer Krefeld GmbH, Dießemer Bruch 81, D-47805, Krefeld, Deutschland.
| | - Hans Jürgen Heppner
- Lehrstuhl für Geriatrie, Private Universität Witten/Herdecke gGmbH und Klinik für Geriatrie mit Tagesklinik, Helios Kliniken Schwelm, Schwelm, Deutschland
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Ramos-Sesma V, Górgolas-Hernández Mora M, Ramos-Rincón JM. The elderly traveller. Rev Clin Esp 2018; 218:426-434. [PMID: 29685639 DOI: 10.1016/j.rce.2018.03.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2018] [Revised: 03/19/2018] [Accepted: 03/20/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
Improved living conditions and advances in medicine have extended life expectancy and quality of life, resulting in an increasing number of elderly travellers. Pathophysiological changes and treatments can reduce the efficacy of vaccines and facilitate drug interactions. Elderly travellers have various characteristics that should be considered when offering pre-trip counselling, which should include proper management of chronic diseases that are susceptible to worsening during the trip, as well as an appropriate study and follow-up after the trip. We performed a narrative review of the main problems of elderly travellers.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Ramos-Sesma
- Servicio de Medicina Interna, Hospital Marina Alta, Denia, Alicante, España
| | | | - J M Ramos-Rincón
- Servicio de Medicina Interna, Hospital General Universitario de Alicante; Departamento de Medicina Clínica, Universidad Miguel Hernández de Elche; ISABIAL - FISABIO, Alicante, España.
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Gerstenlauer C. Pre-travel health in the older adult. Geriatr Nurs 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gerinurse.2017.06.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Wyss K, Wångdahl A, Vesterlund M, Hammar U, Dashti S, Naucler P, Färnert A. Obesity and Diabetes as Risk Factors for Severe Plasmodium falciparum Malaria: Results From a Swedish Nationwide Study. Clin Infect Dis 2017; 65:949-958. [PMID: 28510633 PMCID: PMC5848256 DOI: 10.1093/cid/cix437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2017] [Accepted: 05/07/2017] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Noncommunicable diseases and obesity are increasing in prevalence globally, also in populations at risk of malaria. We sought to investigate if comorbidity, in terms of chronic diseases and obesity, is associated with severe Plasmodium falciparum malaria. METHODS We performed a retrospective observational study in adults (≥18 years of age) diagnosed with malaria in Sweden between January 1995 and May 2015. We identified cases through the surveillance database at the Public Health Agency of Sweden and reviewed clinical data from 18 hospitals. Multivariable logistic regression was used to assess associations between comorbidities and severe malaria. RESULTS Among 937 adults (median age, 37 years; 66.5% were male), patients with severe malaria had higher prevalence of chronic diseases (28/92 [30.4%]) compared with nonsevere cases (151/845 [17.9%]) (P = .004). Charlson comorbidity score ≥1 was associated with severe malaria (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 2.63 [95% confidence interval {CI}, 1.45-4.77), as was diabetes among individual diagnoses (aOR, 2.98 [95% CI, 1.25-7.09]). Median body mass index was higher among severe (29.3 kg/m2) than nonsevere cases (24.7 kg/m2) (P < .001). Obesity was strongly associated with severe malaria, both independently (aOR, 5.58 [95% CI, 2.03-15.36]) and in combination with an additional metabolic risk factor (hypertension, dyslipidemia, or diabetes) (aOR, 6.54 [95% CI, 1.87-22.88]). The associations were observed among nonimmune travelers as well as immigrants from endemic areas. CONCLUSIONS Comorbidities, specifically obesity and diabetes, are previously unidentified risk factors for severe malaria in adults diagnosed with P. falciparum. Noncommunicable diseases should be considered in the acute management and prevention of malaria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katja Wyss
- Unit of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine Solna, Karolinska Institutet, and Departments of
- Emergency Medicine and
- Infectious Diseases, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm
| | - Andreas Wångdahl
- Unit of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine Solna, Karolinska Institutet, and Departments of
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Västerås Central Hospital, and
| | - Maria Vesterlund
- Unit of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine Solna, Karolinska Institutet, and Departments of
| | - Ulf Hammar
- Unit of Biostatistics, Department of Epidemiology, Institute for Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Saduddin Dashti
- Unit of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine Solna, Karolinska Institutet, and Departments of
| | - Pontus Naucler
- Unit of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine Solna, Karolinska Institutet, and Departments of
- Infectious Diseases, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm
| | - Anna Färnert
- Unit of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine Solna, Karolinska Institutet, and Departments of
- Infectious Diseases, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm
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Torresi J, Steffen R. Redefining priorities towards graded travel-related infectious disease research. J Travel Med 2017; 24:4359791. [PMID: 29088486 DOI: 10.1093/jtm/tax064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Our knowledge of the health problems and infections encountered by international travellers has evolved considerably in the past decades. The growth of global networks such as the GeoSentinel Surveillance network, TropNet Europe, EuroTravNet and networks based in North America have provided valuable information on the frequency of a wide array of travel-related diseases and accidents, including details on the destination of travel and trends over time. The information gained from these network studies has provided important data for the practice of travel medicine and in some instances for the development of practice guidelines. However, network data due to a lack of denominators usually cannot serve as a basis for a GRADE approach to guideline development. Although epidemiological network studies will continue to serve an important role in travel medicine we encourage an additional strong focus towards translational scientific research questions and towards the broader use of novel techniques to obtain more accurate epidemiological analyses to address the many unanswered questions in our field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Torresi
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Robert Steffen
- Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Prevention Institute, Division of Communicable Diseases, WHO Collaborating Centre for Travellers' Health, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.,Division of Epidemiology, Human Genetics and Environmental Sciences, The University of Texas School of Public Health, Houston, TX, USA
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Lee TK, Hutter JN, Masel J, Joya C, Whitman TJ. Guidelines for the prevention of travel-associated illness in older adults. TROPICAL DISEASES TRAVEL MEDICINE AND VACCINES 2017; 3:10. [PMID: 28883980 PMCID: PMC5531015 DOI: 10.1186/s40794-017-0054-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2017] [Accepted: 05/15/2017] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
International travel to the developing world is becoming more common in elderly patients (defined here as individuals greater than 65 years old). When providing pre-travel counseling, providers must appreciate the changing physiology, comorbidities, immunity and pharmacokinetics associated with the aging process to prepare elderly patients for the stressors of international travel. These guidelines present an evidence-based approach to pre-travel counseling, immunization, and pharmacology concerns unique to elderly patients seeking care in a travel clinic setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tida K Lee
- Infectious Diseases Service, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, 8901 Wisconsin Avenue, Bethesda, MD 20889 USA.,Naval Medical Research Center, Silver Spring, MD USA
| | - Jack N Hutter
- Infectious Diseases Service, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, 8901 Wisconsin Avenue, Bethesda, MD 20889 USA
| | - Jennifer Masel
- Infectious Diseases Service, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, 8901 Wisconsin Avenue, Bethesda, MD 20889 USA
| | - Christie Joya
- Infectious Diseases Service, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, 8901 Wisconsin Avenue, Bethesda, MD 20889 USA
| | - Timothy J Whitman
- Infectious Diseases Service, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, 8901 Wisconsin Avenue, Bethesda, MD 20889 USA
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Leischker AH, Heppner HJ. [Travel medicine - characteristics in the elderly]. MMW Fortschr Med 2017; 159:50-54. [PMID: 28608067 DOI: 10.1007/s15006-017-9792-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Andreas H Leischker
- Klinik für Geriatrie und Gelbfieberimpfstation, Alexianer Krefeld GmbH, Dießemer Bruch 81, D-47805, Krefeld, Deutschland.
| | - Hans Jürgen Heppner
- Geriatrische Klinik und Tagesklinik, Lehrstuhl für Geriatrie, Universität Witten/Herdecke, Schwelm, Deutschland
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Duplessis CA, Gutierrez RL, Porter CK. Review: chronic and persistent diarrhea with a focus in the returning traveler. TROPICAL DISEASES TRAVEL MEDICINE AND VACCINES 2017; 3:9. [PMID: 28883979 PMCID: PMC5531020 DOI: 10.1186/s40794-017-0052-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2015] [Accepted: 04/18/2017] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Background Travelers’ diarrhea is a common malady afflicting up to 50% of travelers after a 2-week travel period. An appreciable percentage of these cases will become persistent or chronic. We summarized the published literature reporting persistent/chronic diarrhea in travelers elucidating current understanding of disease incidence, etiology and regional variability. Methods We searched electronic databases (Medline, Embase, and Cochrane database of clinical trials) from 1990 to 2015 using the following terms: “chronic or persistent diarrh* and (returning) travel* or enteropathogen, GeoSentinel, and travel-associated infection. Included studies published in the English language on adult returning travelers (duration < 3-months) reporting denominator data. Point estimates and standard 95% confidence intervals were calculated for incidence using a random-effects model. Study incidence heterogeneity rates were assessed using x2 heterogeneity statistics, graphically represented with Forest plots. Results We identified 19 studies meeting the inclusion criteria (all published after 1999). 18 studies reported upon the incidence of persistent/chronic diarrhea as a syndromic diagnosis in returning travelers; one study reported adequate denominator data from which to assess pathogen specific etiology. Giardiasis comprise an appreicaible percentage of infectious mediated persistent/chronic diarrhea in returning travelers. The overall estimate of persistent/chronic diarrhea incidence was 6% (0.05–0.07) in 321,454, travelers; with significant heterogeniety observed across regions. The total number of regional travelers, and point estimates for incidence (95% CI) for Latin American, African, and Asian travelers were [15816 (0.09 [0.07–0.11]), 42290 (0.06 [0.05–0.07]), and 27433 (0.07 [0.06–0.09])] respectively. We identified lower published rates of chronic diarrhea from Sub-Saharan Africa relative to [North Africa, South Central Asia, and Central America]. Persistent/chronic diarrhea ranked fourth as a syndromic diagnosis in all regions. Conclusions Persistent/Chronic diarrhea is a leading syndromic diagnosis in returning travelers across all regions. The 6% incidence [proportionate morbidity (PM) of 60] observed in over >300,000 global travelers is comparable to prior estimates. We identified lower published rates of chronic diarrhea from Sub-Saharan Africa relative to [North Africa, South Central Asia, and Central America]. Giardiasis comprises an appreciabile percentatge of travel-associated infectious mediated persistent/chronic diarrhea. There’s a dearth of published data characterizing the incidence of specific enteropathogenic etiologies for persistent/chronic diarrhea in returning travelers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher A Duplessis
- Enteric Disease Department, Infectious Disease Directorate, Naval Medical Research Center, 503 Robert Grant Avenue, Silver Spring, MD 20910 USA
| | - Ramiro L Gutierrez
- Enteric Disease Department, Infectious Disease Directorate, Naval Medical Research Center, 503 Robert Grant Avenue, Silver Spring, MD 20910 USA
| | - Chad K Porter
- Enteric Disease Department, Infectious Disease Directorate, Naval Medical Research Center, 503 Robert Grant Avenue, Silver Spring, MD 20910 USA
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Affiliation(s)
- Guy E Thwaites
- From the Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom (G.E.T., N.P.J.D.); Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam (G.E.T.); and the Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand (N.P.J.D.)
| | - Nicholas P J Day
- From the Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom (G.E.T., N.P.J.D.); Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam (G.E.T.); and the Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand (N.P.J.D.)
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Dengue. NEGLECTED TROPICAL DISEASES 2017. [PMCID: PMC7123783 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-68493-2_10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Dengue is one of the most important mosquito-borne viral infections caused by single-stranded RNA virus that are transmitted by the Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquito species. Dengue is endemic in over 140 countries in Asia, the USA, the Eastern Mediterranean, and Africa. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimated that there are more than 2.5 billion people—mainly occurs in children living in tropical and subtropical countries—at risk of dengue infection with one or more dengue viruses. There are estimated nearly 100 million symptomatic dengue infections occurring worldwide annually, nearly 75% in Asia and the Western Pacific region [1]. During the past decades, the outbreaks of dengue infection have been reported throughout the world with increased severity. Ecologic and demographic changes are considered to be the contributing factors to the emergence of dengue infection in the past decades. Dengue has expanded into new countries and into urban settings associated with increased distribution of A. aegypti, population growth, urbanization, development of slums, migration of population, movement of dengue virus by infected travelers, trade development, and improved diagnostic capabilities in medical practice [2, 3]. Increased transmission of dengue virus in tropical urban areas has been created by substandard housing and crowding as well as deterioration in water, sewer, and waste management systems, all of which are intimately associated with unplanned urbanization [4–7]. So it is likely that dengue will expand its geographic reach and become an increasing burden on health resources in affected areas during the next decade. An effective vector-control management is the only means to reduce dengue infection in endemic areas. Because vector control has achieved only limited success so far in reducing the transmission of dengue, the usage of effective dengue vaccine in target population along with the preventive measures already used such as raising public awareness may be the means to effectively control of this disease in endemic area [8].
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Siikamäki H, Kivelä P, Fotopoulos M, Kantele A. A closer look at travellers' infections abroad: Finnish nationwide data with incidences, 2010 to 2012. Travel Med Infect Dis 2016; 15:29-36. [PMID: 27773779 DOI: 10.1016/j.tmaid.2016.10.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2016] [Revised: 10/08/2016] [Accepted: 10/18/2016] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although infections represent the most common health problem of travellers abroad, data on morbidity and incidences of various infections are scarce. METHOD Data on infections of Finnish travellers during 2010-2012 were retrieved from the database of SOS International, an assistance organization covering 95% of Finns requiring aid abroad. The study included 30,086 cases. For incidence calculation, the data were linked to the numbers of Finns visiting these regions during the same period as recorded by the Official Statistics of Finland. RESULTS The incidence of infections was particularly high in Africa, southern Europe plus the eastern Mediterranean, and Asia plus Oceania. The most frequent diagnoses were acute gastroenteritis (38.0%) and respiratory-tract infections (RTI) (34.5%), followed by infections of the ear (12.6%), skin or subcutaneous tissue (5.1%), urogenital tract (4.2%), eye (3.1%), and systemic febrile infections (2.2%). Vaccine-preventable diseases (VPD) accounted for 0.8% of cases, with varicella as most (49%) and influenza as second-most (27%) common. CONCLUSIONS Incidence of infections was higher in southern than in eastern and western Europe. Gastroenteritis and RTI proved the most frequent diagnoses, whereas systemic febrile infections were uncommon. Despite pre-travel immunizations, VPDs still occurred; pre-travel consultation should cover both varicella and influenza.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heli Siikamäki
- Inflammation Center, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, POB 348, FI-00029 HUS, Helsinki, Finland; SOS International, Nitivej 6, DK-2000, Frederiksberg, Denmark.
| | - Pia Kivelä
- Inflammation Center, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, POB 348, FI-00029 HUS, Helsinki, Finland.
| | | | - Anu Kantele
- Inflammation Center, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, POB 348, FI-00029 HUS, Helsinki, Finland; Karolinska Institute, Department of Medicine/Solna, Unit of Infectious Diseases, SE 17176 Stockholm, Sweden.
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Pandey P, Lohani B, Murphy H. Pulmonary Embolism Masquerading as High Altitude Pulmonary Edema at High Altitude. High Alt Med Biol 2016; 17:353-358. [PMID: 27768392 PMCID: PMC5175419 DOI: 10.1089/ham.2016.0008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Pandey, Prativa, Benu Lohani, and Holly Murphy. Pulmonary embolism masquerading as high altitude pulmonary edema at high altitude. High Alt Med Biol. 17:353-358, 2016.-Pulmonary embolism (PE) at high altitude is a rare entity that can masquerade as or occur in conjunction with high altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE) and can complicate the diagnosis and management. When HAPE cases do not improve rapidly with descent, other diagnoses, including PE, ought to be considered. From 2013 to 2015, we identified eight cases of PE among 303 patients with initial diagnosis of HAPE. Upon further evaluation, five had deep vein thrombosis (DVT). One woman had a contraceptive ring and seven patients had no known thrombotic risks. PE can coexist with or mimic HAPE and should be considered in patients presenting with shortness of breath from high altitude regardless of thrombotic risk.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Benu Lohani
- 2 Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital , Kathmandu, Nepal
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Gudmundsson A, Stevenson J, Petrovic M, Somers A, Onder G, Callens S, van der Cammen T. Challenges and risks for older travellers with multimorbidity: Focus on pharmacotherapy. Eur Geriatr Med 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.eurger.2016.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Rodway GW, Lovelace AJ, Lanspa MJ, McIntosh SE, Bell J, Briggs B, Weaver LK, Yanowitz F, Grissom CK. Sildenafil and Exercise Capacity in the Elderly at Moderate Altitude. Wilderness Environ Med 2016; 27:307-15. [PMID: 27116921 DOI: 10.1016/j.wem.2016.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2014] [Revised: 12/15/2015] [Accepted: 01/20/2016] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Hypobaric hypoxia decreases exercise capacity and causes hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction and pulmonary hypertension. The phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitor sildenafil is a pulmonary vasodilator that may improve exercise capacity at altitude. We aimed to determine whether sildenafil improves exercise capacity, measured as maximal oxygen consumption (peak V̇o2), at moderate altitude in adults 60 years or older. METHODS The design was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover study. After baseline cardiopulmonary exercise testing at 1400 m, 12 healthy participants (4 women) aged 60 years or older, who reside permanently at approximately 1400 m and are regularly active in self-propelled mountain recreation above 2000 m, performed maximal cardiopulmonary cycle exercise tests in a hypobaric chamber at a simulated altitude of 2750 m after ingesting sildenafil and after ingesting a placebo. RESULTS After placebo, mean peak V̇o2 was significantly lower at 2750 m than 1400 m: 37.0 mL · kg(-1) · min(-1) (95% CI, 32.7 to 41.3) vs 39.1 mL · kg(-1) · min(-1) (95% CI, 33.5 to 44.7; P = .020). After placebo, there was no difference in heart rate (HR) or maximal workload at either altitude (z = 0.182; P = .668, respectively). There was no difference between sildenafil and placebo at 2750 m in peak V̇o2 (P = .668), O2 pulse (P = .476), cardiac index (P = .143), stroke volume index (z = 0.108), HR (z = 0.919), or maximal workload (P = .773). Transthoracic echocardiography immediately after peak exercise at 2750 m showed tricuspid annular plane systolic velocity was significantly higher after sildenafil than after placebo (P = .019), but showed no difference in tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (P = .720). CONCLUSIONS Sildenafil (50 mg) did not improve exercise capacity in adults 60 years or older at moderate altitude in our study. This might be explained by a "dosing effect" or insufficiently high altitude.
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Affiliation(s)
- George W Rodway
- University of Utah School of Nursing, Salt Lake City, UT (Dr Rodway).
| | - Anne J Lovelace
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care (Ms Lovelace, Drs Lanspa and Grissom, and Mr Briggs)
| | - Michael J Lanspa
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care (Ms Lovelace, Drs Lanspa and Grissom, and Mr Briggs)
| | | | - James Bell
- Intermountain Medical Center (Mr Bell and Dr Weaver), Murray, UT; Hyperbaric Medicine (Mr Bell), LDS Hospital, Salt Lake City, UT
| | - Ben Briggs
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care (Ms Lovelace, Drs Lanspa and Grissom, and Mr Briggs)
| | - Lindell K Weaver
- Intermountain Medical Center (Mr Bell and Dr Weaver), Murray, UT; Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care (Dr Weaver); School of Medicine (Drs Weaver and Yanowitz), University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT
| | - Frank Yanowitz
- and ECG Services and Cardiac Rehabilitation (Dr Yanowitz); School of Medicine (Drs Weaver and Yanowitz), University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT
| | - Colin K Grissom
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care (Ms Lovelace, Drs Lanspa and Grissom, and Mr Briggs)
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Elderberry Supplementation Reduces Cold Duration and Symptoms in Air-Travellers: A Randomized, Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial. Nutrients 2016; 8:182. [PMID: 27023596 PMCID: PMC4848651 DOI: 10.3390/nu8040182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2016] [Revised: 03/14/2016] [Accepted: 03/18/2016] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Intercontinental air travel can be stressful, especially for respiratory health. Elderberries have been used traditionally, and in some observational and clinical studies, as supportive agents against the common cold and influenza. This randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial of 312 economy class passengers travelling from Australia to an overseas destination aimed to investigate if a standardised membrane filtered elderberry (Sambucus nigra L.) extract has beneficial effects on physical, especially respiratory, and mental health. Cold episodes, cold duration and symptoms were noted in a daily diary and assessed using the Jackson score. Participants also completed three surveys containing questions regarding upper respiratory symptoms (WURSS-21) and quality of life (SF-12) at baseline, just before travel and at 4-days after travel. Most cold episodes occurred in the placebo group (17 vs. 12), however the difference was not significant (p = 0.4). Placebo group participants had a significantly longer duration of cold episode days (117 vs. 57, p = 0.02) and the average symptom score over these days was also significantly higher (583 vs. 247, p = 0.05). These data suggest a significant reduction of cold duration and severity in air travelers. More research is warranted to confirm this effect and to evaluate elderberry's physical and mental health benefits.
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Gagneux-Brunon A, Andrillat C, Fouilloux P, Daoud F, Defontaine C, Charles R, Lucht F, Botelho-Nevers E. Pre-travel advice seeking from GPs by travellers with chronic illness seen at a travel clinic. J Travel Med 2016; 23:taw013. [PMID: 27029909 DOI: 10.1093/jtm/taw013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/01/2016] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Travellers are ageing and frequently report chronic illness. Pre-travel health advice is crucial, particularly in this subgroup, and general practitioners (GPs) are first in line for treatment adjustment before departure. Our aim is to evaluate pre-travel health advice seeking from GPs by travellers with chronic illness seen at a travel clinic. METHODS A cross-sectional observational survey using a questionnaire was conducted between August 2013 and July 2014 in travellers attending the travel medicine clinic of a tertiary university hospital in France. RESULTS During the study, 2019 travellers were included. Mean age was 39.4 years (±18.8). Three hundred and ninety-one (19.4%) travellers reported a history of a chronic illness. Arterial hypertension and diabetes mellitus were the most frequently reported illnesses, affecting, respectively, 168 (8.3%) travellers and 102 (5.1%). Hajj pilgrims were more likely to report a history of chronic illness than other travellers. Only 810 (40.1%) travellers sought pre-travel advice from their GP. Six hundred and fifty-two (40.1%) healthy travellers and 158 (40.5%) travellers reporting chronic illness sought pre-travel advice from their GP (P = 0.96). CONCLUSION Travellers with a history of chronic illness do not seek pre-travel health advice from their GP more frequently than healthy travellers. Travel health specialists are generally not the best practitioners to manage the care of underlying medical conditions presenting risks during travel. However, GPs offer continuity and disease management expertise to improve the specificity of pre-travel planning. Thus, ongoing collaboration between the traveller, GP and travel health specialist is likely to yield the best outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amandine Gagneux-Brunon
- Department of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, Travel Clinic, University Hospital of Saint-Etienneand
| | - Carole Andrillat
- Department of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, Travel Clinic, University Hospital of Saint-Etienneand
| | - Pascale Fouilloux
- Department of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, Travel Clinic, University Hospital of Saint-Etienneand
| | - Fatiha Daoud
- Department of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, Travel Clinic, University Hospital of Saint-Etienneand
| | - Christiane Defontaine
- Department of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, Travel Clinic, University Hospital of Saint-Etienneand
| | - Rodolphe Charles
- Department of Family Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Saint-Etienne, 55 Avenue Albert Raimond, Saint-Etienne 42055, France
| | - Frédéric Lucht
- Department of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, Travel Clinic, University Hospital of Saint-Etienneand
| | - Elisabeth Botelho-Nevers
- Department of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, Travel Clinic, University Hospital of Saint-Etienneand
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Allen N, Bergin C, Kennelly SP. Malaria in the returning older traveler. Trop Dis Travel Med Vaccines 2016; 2:2. [PMID: 28883946 PMCID: PMC5588706 DOI: 10.1186/s40794-016-0018-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2015] [Accepted: 01/28/2016] [Indexed: 04/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Increased co-morbidities and physiological changes mean older patients may be at higher risk of adverse outcomes from certain imported illnesses. One of the most commonly diagnosed imported infections in returning travelers is malaria. Increasing age is strongly and independently associated with increasing morbidity and mortality from malaria. Delayed diagnosis leads to higher risks of poor clinical outcomes in older patients presenting with malaria. The objective of this study was to quantify malaria presentations in older patients as a percentage of total malaria presentations, compare length of hospital stay (LOS) between the older and younger cohort, and to describe medical co-morbidities, length of time to diagnosis and factors contributing to delayed diagnosis and increased LOS in the older cohort. METHODS A retrospective cohort study was undertaken in two university hospitals of all patients aged 65 years or older presenting with malaria from 2002-2012. A national hospital inpatient database was used to identify patients of all ages with a discharge diagnosis of malaria over this ten year period, and quantify LOS in those aged <65 and those aged 65 years or older. The case-notes for all of the older cohort were reviewed. RESULTS There were a total of 203 cases, 12 of whom were aged ≥65 years (5.9 %- total). Median time to diagnosis in this older group was two days (range 0-35), median LOS was eight days (range 1-77), compared to a median LOS of three days in those aged <65 years. All patients aged ≥65 years presented with fever. Travel history was documented in only 6/12 charts, and 11/12 had two or more co-morbid illnesses. Six of the 12 patients were not diagnosed or treated within 48 h of presentation. CONCLUSIONS This case series highlights the need for appropriate history-taking and timely diagnosis of the older traveler returning with fever, as delayed diagnosis and treatment can contribute to prolonged hospital stay and increased morbidity. With increasing numbers of older travelers, physicians must remain vigilant to the presence of imported illnesses, particularly malaria, in older patients with unexplained fever.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Allen
- Department of Genitourinary medicine and Infectious Diseases, St. James’s Hospital, Dublin 8, Ireland
| | - C Bergin
- Department of Genitourinary medicine and Infectious Diseases, St. James’s Hospital, Dublin 8, Ireland
- School of Medicine, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - SP Kennelly
- Department of Age Related Healthcare, Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Tallaght, Dublin 24, Ireland
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Jaeger VK, Tschudi N, Rüegg R, Hatz C, Bühler S. The elderly, the young and the pregnant traveler -- A retrospective data analysis from a large Swiss Travel Center with a special focus on malaria prophylaxis and yellow fever vaccination. Travel Med Infect Dis 2015; 13:475-84. [PMID: 26526774 DOI: 10.1016/j.tmaid.2015.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2015] [Revised: 09/12/2015] [Accepted: 10/05/2015] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vulnerable individuals such as elderly, children/adolescents and pregnant/breastfeeding women increasingly travel overseas. We describe the travel and vaccination patterns of these groups at the largest Travel Clinic in Switzerland especially focusing on travel to yellow fever and malaria-endemic countries, and yellow fever vaccination (YFV) and malaria medications. METHOD An analysis of pre-travel visits between 2010 and 2012 at the Travel Clinic of the University of Zurich, was performed assessing differences between the elderly, young and middle-aged travelers as well as between pregnant/breastfeeding and other female travelers. RESULTS Overall, the vulnerable groups did not differ from other travelers regarding their travel patterns. YFV was the most often administered vaccine to elderly travelers; half of them received it for the first time. More than 30% of children/adolescents received YFV, but no child below six months was vaccinated. 80% of young travelers and a similar percentage of pregnant women went to malaria-endemic regions. Twenty-five pregnant/breastfeeding women traveled to YF endemic areas. CONCLUSIONS Travel patterns of vulnerable travelers are comparable to those of other travelers. In view of the limited data on malaria medications and precautions against YFV during pregnancy and at the extreme ages of life, giving travel advice to these groups is challenging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronika K Jaeger
- Department of Rheumatology, Basel University Hospital, Petersgraben 4, 4031 Basel, Switzerland; Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Department of Medicine and Diagnostics, Socinstrasse 57, 4051 Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Nadine Tschudi
- Department of Public Health, Division of Infectious Diseases/Travel Clinic, Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Prevention Institute, Hirschengraben 84, 8001 Zurich, Switzerland.
| | - Rolanda Rüegg
- Department of Public Health, Division of Infectious Diseases/Travel Clinic, Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Prevention Institute, Hirschengraben 84, 8001 Zurich, Switzerland.
| | - Christoph Hatz
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Department of Medicine and Diagnostics, Socinstrasse 57, 4051 Basel, Switzerland; Department of Public Health, Division of Infectious Diseases/Travel Clinic, Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Prevention Institute, Hirschengraben 84, 8001 Zurich, Switzerland.
| | - Silja Bühler
- Department of Public Health, Division of Infectious Diseases/Travel Clinic, Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Prevention Institute, Hirschengraben 84, 8001 Zurich, Switzerland.
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Croughs W. Ouderen op reis. BIJBLIJVEN 2015; 31:524-534. [PMID: 32287614 PMCID: PMC7104421 DOI: 10.1007/s12414-015-0062-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Ouderen reizen steeds meer, maar met de leeftijd neemt de kans toe om op reis te overlijden. De oorzaak hiervan is meestal een verergering van vooraf bestaande gezondheidsaandoeningen, eventueel uitgelokt door reisgerelateerde stress en vermoeidheid, infecties en hitte. Ook de hogere leeftijd zelf is echter verantwoordelijk voor een deel van de oversterfte, doordat de afweer afneemt met als gevolg meer kans op ernstige infecties. Daarnaast zijn ouderen gevoeliger voor diepveneuze trombose, dehydratie, temperatuurverschillen en jetlag. Een goede voorbereiding en rekening houden met de specifieke risico’s van een hogere leeftijd, zorgen ervoor dat ook ouderen in het algemeen veilig kunnen reizen.
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Abstract
The age-associated increased susceptibility to infectious disease would suggest that vaccination should be a route to promote healthy aging and keep our seniors autonomous and independent. While vaccination represents a cost-effective and efficient strategy at community level, the ability of the immune system to mount a protective immune response is still unpredictable at the level of the individual. Thus, at a similar age, some individuals, including the elderly, might still be 'good' responders while some other, even younger, would definitely fail to mount a protective response. In this review, the current burden of vaccine-preventable diseases in the aging and aged population will be detailed with the aim to identify the ideal vaccine candidates over the age of 50 years. This article will conclude with potential strategies to reduce, as best as possible, this burden and the imperative need to overcome barriers in extending current vaccine coverage towards to a lifelong vaccine schedule.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pierre-Olivier Lang
- Translational Medicine Research group, Cranfield Health, Cranfield University, Cranfield, England,
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Croughs M, Van Gompel A, Rameckers S, Van den Ende J. Serious altitude illness in travelers who visited a pre-travel clinic. J Travel Med 2014; 21:403-9. [PMID: 25238200 DOI: 10.1111/jtm.12160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2014] [Revised: 06/29/2014] [Accepted: 07/15/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Few data are available on the incidence and predictors of serious altitude illness in travelers who visit pre-travel clinics. Travel health consultants advise on measures to be taken in case of serious altitude illness but it is not clear if travelers adhere to these recommendations. METHODS Visitors to six travel clinics who planned to travel to an altitude of ≥3,000 m were asked to complete a diary from the first day at 2,000 m until 3 days after reaching the maximum sleeping altitude. Serious altitude illness was defined as having symptoms of serious acute mountain sickness (AMS score ≥ 6) and/or cerebral edema and/or pulmonary edema. RESULTS The incidence of serious altitude illness in the 401 included participants of whom 90% reached ≥4,000 m, was 35%; 23% had symptoms of serious AMS, 25% symptoms of cerebral edema, and 13% symptoms of pulmonary edema. Independent predictors were young age, the occurrence of dark urine, travel in South America or Africa, and lack of acclimatization between 1,000 and 2,500 m. Acetazolamide was brought along by 77% of the responders of whom 41% took at least one dose. Of those with serious altitude illness, 57% had taken at least one dose of acetazolamide, 20% descended below 2,500 m on the same day or the next, and 11% consulted a physician. CONCLUSIONS Serious altitude illness was a very frequent problem in travelers who visited pre-travel clinics. Young age, dark urine, travel in South America or Africa, and lack of acclimatization nights at moderate altitude were independent predictors. Furthermore, we found that seriously ill travelers seldom followed the advice to descend and to visit a physician.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mieke Croughs
- Department of Environment, GGD Hart voor Brabant, 's-Hertogenbosch, The Netherlands; Department of Clinical Sciences, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
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Izadi M, Is'haqi A, Is'haqi MA, Jonaidi Jafari N, Rahamaty F, Banki A. An overview of travel-associated central nervous system infectious diseases: risk assessment, general considerations and future directions. Asian Pac J Trop Biomed 2014; 4:589-96. [PMID: 25183325 DOI: 10.12980/apjtb.4.2014apjtb-2014-0065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2014] [Accepted: 08/11/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Nervous system infections are among the most important diseases in travellers. Healthy travellers might be exposed to infectious agents of central nervous system, which may require in-patient care. Progressive course is not uncommon in this family of disorders and requires swift diagnosis. An overview of the available evidence in the field is, therefore, urgent to pave the way to increase the awareness of travel-medicine practitioners and highlights dark areas for future research. In November 2013, data were collected from PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Knowledge (1980 to 2013) including books, reviews, and peer-reviewed literature. Works pertained to pre-travel care, interventions, vaccinations related neurological infections were retrieved. Here we provide information on pre-travel care, vaccination, chronic nervous system disorders, and post-travel complications. Recommendations with regard to knowledge gaps, and state-of-the-art research are made. Given an increasing number of international travellers, novel dynamic ways are available for physicians to monitor spread of central nervous system infections. Newer research has made great progresses in developing newer medications, detecting the spread of infections and the public awareness. Despite an ongoing scientific discussion in the field of travel medicine, further research is required for vaccine development, state-of-the-art laboratory tests, and genetic engineering of vectors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Morteza Izadi
- Baqiyatallah Hospital, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Arman Is'haqi
- Department of Neurology, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Ali Is'haqi
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Rasoul Akram Hospital, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran Iran
| | | | - Fatemeh Rahamaty
- Baqiyatallah Hospital, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Abdolali Banki
- Department of Neurology, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Bühler S, Rüegg R, Steffen R, Hatz C, Jaeger VK. A profile of travelers--an analysis from a large swiss travel clinic. J Travel Med 2014; 21:324-31. [PMID: 24934830 DOI: 10.1111/jtm.12139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2013] [Revised: 03/19/2014] [Accepted: 03/27/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Globally, the Swiss have one of the highest proportions of the population traveling to tropical and subtropical countries. Large travel clinics serve an increasing number of customers with specific pre-travel needs including uncommon destinations and preexisting medical conditions. This study aims to identify health characteristics and travel patterns of travelers seeking advice in the largest Swiss travel clinic so that tailored advice can be delivered. METHODS A descriptive analysis was performed on pre-travel visits between July 2010 and August 2012 at the Travel Clinic of the Institute of Social and Preventive Medicine, University of Zurich, Switzerland. RESULTS A total of 22,584 travelers sought pre-travel advice. Tourism was the main reason for travel (17,875, 81.5%), followed by visiting friends and relatives (VFRs; 1,715, 7.8%), traveling for business (1,223, 5.6%), and "other reasons" (ie, volunteer work, pilgrimage, study abroad, and emigration; 1,112, 5.1%). The main travel destination was Thailand. In the VFR group, the highest proportions of traveling children (258, 15.1%) and of pregnant or breastfeeding women (23, 3.9%) were observed. Mental disorders were more prominent in VFRs (93, 5.4%) and in travel for "other reasons" (63, 5.7%). The latter stayed for the longest periods abroad; 272 (24.9%) stayed longer than 6 months. VFR travelers received the highest percentage of yellow fever vaccinations (523, 30.5%); in contrast, rabies (269, 24.2%) and typhoid vaccinations (279, 25.1%) were given more often to the "other travel reasons" group. CONCLUSIONS New insights into the characteristics of a selected and large population of Swiss international travelers results in improved understanding of the special needs of an increasingly diverse population and, thus, in targeted preventive advice and interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silja Bühler
- Division of Epidemiology and Prevention of Communicable Diseases, Travel Clinic, Institute of Social and Preventive Medicine, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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Baer A, Libassi L, Lloyd JK, Benoliel E, Brucker R, Jones MQ, Kwan-Gett TS, McKeirnan S, Pecha M, Rietberg K, Serafin L, Walkinshaw LP, Duchin JS. Risk factors for infections in international travelers: An analysis of travel-related notifiable communicable diseases. Travel Med Infect Dis 2014; 12:525-33. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tmaid.2014.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2014] [Revised: 05/09/2014] [Accepted: 05/16/2014] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Abstract
The success of vaccines developed since the beginning of the 20th century, has enabled the conquest of several childhood diseases preventing death and or disability for millions of children. But, globally, the number of children will soon be surpassed by the number of adults over the age of 65. The active lifestyle of these older individuals, coupled with a degree of immune deficiency recognised within this population will lead to a change in the profile of diseases affecting the elderly. The challenge for policy makers and also those involved in primary healthcare is how to protect this population from communicable diseases and keep them healthy, autonomous and independent when vaccines in the main have been developed for use on children and young adults.
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